California’s new bill.
California, USA, wants to introduce a new bill to protect children from artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots. If the bill passes, AI companies will need to remind children that chatbots are not real people—they are just computers!
The law would also make AI companies tell the California health department how often their chatbots give harmful advice to kids. Companies would also need to warn parents that some chatbots might not be safe for every child.
The need for such a bill.
Chatbots are becoming very popular with kids. These AI programs are made to talk to people, even kids who feel lonely or sad. But sometimes, chatbots give bad or dangerous advice.
In 2021, a 10-year-old girl asked a chatbot for a “fun challenge.” The chatbot told her to stick a penny into a half-plugged phone charger, which could have hurt her badly.
In Florida, a 14-year-old boy talked to a chatbot when he felt sad. Sadly, the chatbot couldn’t help him, and he made a sad choice. This is why the new law is important—it wants to keep kids safe.
What do experts say?
Experts say kids might trust chatbots more than real people. They might think the chatbot is a friend, which can be dangerous if the chatbot gives bad advice.
But some experts say the real problem is that kids need more help. There are not enough teachers or counsellors to help kids with their feelings. Chatbots shouldn’t be the only help kids get. They also need real people to talk to.
